Your rental property is vacant, so you’re stuck paying two mortgages — that sounds like anything but fun — and you want to find a tenant as soon as possible. And you do mean A. S. A. P.

You want to find a tenant so badly that you might even be willing to sign on the dotted line with the first candidate interested. But take a bit of advice from the pros at Real Property Management: Screen your potential tenants, and screen them all. By asking a few key questions, you’ll have a clearer picture of whether this person is the right fit for your home… or not.

Why are you moving?

Pay careful attention here. Most of the time, the reasons will be legitimate: “We need more room.” Or “I’m changing jobs, and need to be closer to work.” But you may decide not to rent to someone who’s been recently evicted, or someone who was constantly at odds with their neighbors.

What is your monthly income?

The long and short of it is, you have to know if the person you’re considering will be able to pay, in full and on time. If your rent is set at $1000 per month, the right tenant for your unit will need to make at least $2500 per month. It may be wise to run a credit check on each potential renter, because excessive amounts of debt may also hinder his or her ability to pay.

Will you consent to a credit and background check?

This practice is pretty standard, so any answer of “no” should throw immediate red flags. Do not rent to anyone who refuses.

Can you provide references?

Much like refusing to consent to a credit and background check, anyone who cannot produce references likely has something to hide. Employment references can verify income and professional stability, while housing references will speak to the risk of property damage and non-payment — all of which are important to the success of your endeavor.

How many people will be living in the apartment?

An overcrowded apartment can be a health and safety risk, so your local Fire Marshall might have a genuine objection to finding five people living in a one bedroom apartment. It’s crucial that you know exactly who, and how many people will call your property home. More people means more wear and tear.

But don’t ask…

It’s important to ask the right questions, but it’s just as important to know which questions you should never ask. Avoid asking questions such as “Are you disabled?” or “What is your religion?” or any others that might violate the Federal Fair Housing Act. Don’t ask if a potential tenant has ever been arrested; instead, ask if he has been convicted of a crime — the distinction matters.

At the end of the day, your end goal and your potential tenant’s is the same: To fill your space with stuff, and things, and laughter.

Questions to Ask Potential Tenants, & Questions to Avoid